June 12, 2023
Beginning this fall, EC3 will offer a program designed for individuals 18+ with level one autism, Uniquely Abled Academy.
Students will learn to program, set up, operate CNC machines, use quality control instruments, perform shop mathematics, and blueprint reading. Graduating with both college credits and a CNC Operator/Machinist certificate, students will qualify for several entry level positions, including machinist and CNC operator. The UAA at EC3 is supported in part by the Employment and Training Administration of the U.S. Department of Labor as part of an award totaling $60,320.00. 37% ($19,000.00) with federal funding, which is 34% of the total award, and 63% ($32,000.00) funded by non-governmental sources via a grant from the Erie Community Foundation.
“We are really excited about the opportunity to bring this program to EC3,” said Rebecca Walker, Dean of Workforce Development. “It is another way to demonstrate to the county at large how we are working to serve all individuals.” EC3 is partnering with Northwest Industrial Resource Center (NWIRC) and numerous other community organizations for this initiative.
The program will begin August 21st, 2023 and run through May 31st, 2024, Monday to Friday 3:00 PM – 7:15 PM at Erie County Community College. The total cost for Erie County Residents, which includes tuition and fees is $1710. Currently, Erie County residents will have tuition covered by the EC3 Empowerment Grant, which is expected to continue through the FALL 2023 semester, however students are still responsible for applicable fees. Additional funding may be available for qualified candidates through the PA Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR). Call us for more information or if cost is a barrier. We can help make this possible for eligible students.
For more information about the program visit the link here. You can also contact Tacie Thomas directly at tthomas@ec3pa.org or call 814-373-9382.